As you might be aware at this point, Google has been using the exact same 50MP GN1 sensor with both its Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 but will the upcoming Pixel 8 be any different in this department or will it follow suit?
There is no doubt that there are many advantages to using this sensor but at the same time, this component is surely aged when compared to most other flagship cameras.
With that being said, a new leak says that Google is well aware of this reality and might end up eventually replacing it with a new gen sensor on Pixel 8 (Pro) while also allowing for massive improvements as far as image quality is concerned.
Well known leaker Kuba Wojciechowski was the one who discovered this possibility by looking into the source code of Google’s Camera Go app.
What Kuba Wojciechowski found was that Google has been testing a staggered HDR mode with its upcoming version of the app.
And since Samsung’s ISOCELL GN2 is currently the only one that uses this technology, the search giant’s options have been narrowed down to this specific sensor.
Furthermore, the reference also confirms two devices referred to as Husky and Shiba, (which are probably code names for the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro) will support this mode.
And that’s not even all the code mentions. Apparently, there is also a Pixel Tangor Pro device that is believed to be the Pixel Tablet’s pro version and which is believed to share the same capability as the Pixel 8.
Staggered HDR is something that gives phone cameras the capability to take 3 different images, each with another exposure level.
In theory, this would mean better dynamic range and higher contrast for the resulting image when compared to the standard photo.
Aside from the useful hardware, Google can also use its custom software optimizations to enhance pictures.
As an example, Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra features a GN2 which does produce sharp and well-exposed shots.
At the same time, however, we still need to wait a bit more in order to see the actual effects this can have on a Pixel phone.